I searched up best coffee in La Mesa, picked the first recommended place, and am happy I did so. I just moved to San Diego from San Francisco and found myself in La Mesa applying for jobs. I needed a quick coffee to end my day and after searching the best coffee in La Mesa, Red White and Badass Brew was the first to pop up. The owner was super nice-I didn't get his name-and he walked with me through the menu as I haven't had specialty coffee drinks like these before. I went with his recommendation of the whiskey latte (iced) and also decided to try the toasted tan lines (iced) When I tell you, my first sip transported me back to the 2013-2016 era of coffee culture when specialty drinks were first starting to get popular, I am being so serious. Both the whiskey latte and toasted tan lines were full of so much flavor. The toasted tan lines took me straight back to my trip to Kauai in 2013 and the whiskey latte was reminiscent of a latte I would get in middle school from a Brazilian small business. There was just something so nostalgic about these lattes that I had to immediately write a review. So many coffee shops lack the flavor of the 2010s before companies cut corners and scraped for our pennies, but not here Thanks for the coffee! (No pics because I inhaled them in like 5 mins on my drive home) read more

It's been a while since I've been back but decided to stop by with my husband this time. We also realized we could order ahead so we did that. Unfortunately there isn't an online order line so you end up waiting anyways and they made our drinks only after we arrived and told them we had the online order. That being said everyone working was really friendly and they were working hard as it was busy on Sunday around 8. I got the gone bananas half sweet and an extra shot. My partner got the horchata matcha with extra matcha. Even my drink at half sweet was too sweet for my taste but still enjoyable. Not a strong banana flavor though. More caramel forward. My partner loved his drink but did say it was more horchata than matcha. read more

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I was driving around the area and I usually don't go around there, but I noticed a small drive-through coffee shop and I turned into the parking lot. I was met with attentive staff, shoutout Jessie and Lilly! I'd recommend the "Tan Line" if you like coconut. The place is cool and is nicely decorated! Please check out this business! read more

I tried their whiskey latte and absolutely loved it! There is a bit of a wait since it's a small operation so it may not be the place if you're in a rush, but come back on a slower morning in your schedule bc it's worth it read more

Solid lattes and convenient drive through. I personally don't like sweet drink so I get them half sweet and they are still a little sweet, but the whiskey espresso is so good. The service is fast and friendly and always accommodating to requests or questions. The traditional espresso drinks are a little underwhelming and on the bitter side, so I would stick with the lattes. That seems to be what they have down to a science. read more

First time trying Red White and Badass Brew. I ordered online for pick up. Service was fast and friendly. I got their Horchata Matcha with extra Matcha and oat milk. This was super tasty. You can taste the spice with the horchata. I'm a big matcha fan so I got extra matcha in it. Definitely happy I did that. Felt like without it the horchata flavor may have overpowered the drink. It was definitely more on the expensive side because of the extra matcha. But definitely worth a try if your in the area! read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Horchata Matcha with Oat milk - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

This was my second time at this coffee establishment, I remember really liking it my first visit so decided to try something new! I unfortunately chose the wrong line and got stuck behind this cop who was ordering but also decided to get out and help capture a lost dog which made 3 other cars cut in line ahead of me... the workers were very sweet and noticed I had been waiting and came out right away to help and make sure I got my order taken! The la mesa latte was super yummy and while I'm not the biggest fan of cold foam on lattes this one was pleasantly good! I had also gotten a bagel with cream cheese which I don't believe was toasted and would say that was the only downside but the delicious amount of cream cheese definitely helped. read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

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If you're in the La Mesa area of San Diego and you need a quick caffeine fix, this little drive-thru packs a big punch. I was on my way to church and needed an early cup and was surprised how many shops were not open at 7 AM. I'm sure I could have found a Starbucks but that's always reserved for a last resort. Big props to this spot being open early on a Sunday morning, so I could make it to church prayed up and fully caffeinated. The barista opened right on time (7 AM) I loved how friendly she was for it being that early, and she got me my drink within 3-4 minutes. I am not a big coffee drive-thru guy, but if I lived in the area, especially knowing it is veteran owned, I might become one. Thanks guys and best of luck! read more

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Came back to give em a try got a chai it was okay. I don't like sweet coffee but I like flavor specially if it supposed to be in it. My husband got the gone bananas he loves strong bitter coffee and he liked it but he agreed it didn't taste like banana. read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

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I've been feeling the deployment blues lately so I figured I'd grab a coffee from one of my husband's favorite spots to lift my mood a little. I've had Red White and Badass Brew one other time after my husband raved about this cookies and cream latte he got here. It's a small, local, veteran owned shop, which honestly makes supporting it feel even better. So, I thought getting his favorite drink would help, but turns out that was a seasonal winter drink... please bring it back, it was sooo good. I got in line around 8:30 and there were two cars in front of me. This place is so small and cute, I actually used to work in one of these drive-thru kiosk style cafes so I didn't mind the short wait at all as usually its only one or two people working in there. I do wish they had a menu visible from the line because I couldn't decide what I wanted while waiting. The only things visible were the specials like an avocado toast and a "no lucks given" drink. I ended up pulling up the menu on my phone which works, but it would be more convenient if they had something displayed out front like a sandwich board or something. The employee was incredible, super friendly, my order was taken quick and my drink came out even quicker. It is a little on the pricier side for a cup of coffee but you are supporting a local business. With tip it came out to over $9 for a regular size. I ordered the no lucks given, which is a chocolate Irish cream latte, and swapped to oat milk. My first sip was amazing, a medium dark roast that wasn't bitter at all with a rich chocolate flavor. You could see the chocolate coating the walls of the cup and I'm pretty sure there was a cold foam on top that made it extra creamy. The overall drink was smooth and well balanced, just a little too sweet for my liking but that's something I can adjust next time. I did have a kind of odd moment though. My second sip was great until I got hit with a sudden punch of salt. Like a full on salt crystal just melted on my tongue for a good 10 seconds. It was strong and definitely woke me up... which I guess is what the coffee was supposed to do, I just didn't expect a surprise salt bomb to help with that. After that I checked my drink and everything looked fine and the rest of it tasted great. Overall I'll definitely be back. The service was great, the drink was solid, and I love supporting a spot like this. I can't wait to come here more often, and hopefully one day come back with my husband when comes home from deployment, with his cookies and cream drink back on the menu. read more

Red White and Badass Brew - No Lucks Given - Chocolate Irish Cream Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

Last minute needed coffee. My husband and I didnt have a lot of time to figure out where to go but this place was the first one that popped up on my yelp so we swung by quickly. Don't let the small location fool you my husband was talking smack but silenced immediately following his crazy banana coffee and cream cheese bagel. Both our drinks were iced and delicious. I had an americano with sugar free syrup and cream. Service was fast. read more

Love this business not just for their perfect coffee, but for their staff as well as their mission. Kenzie is so kind, down to earth, friendly, and accommodating! Coffee is perfectly creamy and sweet, but not sugar loaded, it's just right! Owner was also quick to make right a miscommunication on a DoorDash order, very kind and professional! Great service, good business morals you don't have to feel guilty supporting, plus great coffee? What more could you ask for? As active duty and a veteran, this place is my wife's and my favorite new Sunday morning pit stop before our Sunday reset errands/chores. read more

A Hidden Gem & Veteran-Owned Treasure! I stopped by this charming veteran-owned coffee shop and ordered their Strawberry Matcha and WOW! It was the best Matcha drink I've ever tasted! Not only was it a perfect blend of strawberry and high-quality matcha, but they added coconut, which gave it a smooth, delicious, and refreshing flavor unlike anything I've had before. Pure perfection in a cup! What I loved most was how easy it is to pull right up, order, and go which is perfect for busy mornings or when you're on the move. The service was fast, friendly, efficient, and you could genuinely feel the love and care they put into every drink. And the fact that it's a Veteran-owned business makes it even more special. I love supporting our Veterans and businesses that show heart, dedication, and excellence, and this place absolutely does. I honestly can't wait to go back as it was that delicious! If you love Matcha, quality ingredients, and great service, this is your new go-to spot! read more

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Stumbled upon this gem while I was in the neighborhood. My barista was very friendly, and their coffee is delicious! I wanted to try their naughty listed holiday drink but they were out of Oreo. The barista recommended the peppermint white mocha drink. I decided to give it a try and asked for it to be modified to less sweet with an extra shot. It was absolutely delicious! They have a rewards program if you give them your phone number to sign up. I wish I lived closer by, I would frequent this little drive through for sure! Will definitely be back if I'm in the neighborhood though! read more

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I've been here twice already as a pre-work pit stop and I've had great experiences both times. The same girl was working - I didn't catch her name but she had a great mannerism to her and was really nice/helpful. She helped me decide what to get and seemed very attentive. The first time I came here i got the Gone Bananas and the second time I got the Spiced girl. Both drinks were really good! They weren't too sweet but were just the right amount of sweetness for me (i like my coffee sweet but not too sweet). The drive thru experience was also very smooth. There are windows on both sides so you can come in from either direction as it is a vey small little booth. You can drive up or walk up to the booth but it's super convenient. Will definitely be making more stops here! read more

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Came here on a whim and I'm so glad I did. First off - the banana caramel latte is next-level delicious. Sweet without being over the top, smooth, and just different enough to make me feel like I discovered a secret menu item. I'd come back for that drink alone. The staff deserves a shoutout too - they're seriously some of the friendliest people I've met in a coffee shop. Super welcoming, quick with recommendations, and they make you feel like you're part of the crew from the second you pull in the drive through. Between the killer drinks and the good vibes, Red White & Badass Brew definitely lives up to the name. Already planning my next trip back. read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Banana Caramel Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

WE LOVE FINDING LOCAL SPOTD! This is so close to us, so if it's close to us it's close to you and that means you're passing a few corporate options. We got the banana coffee awhile back and I'm just getting round to reviewing. The girls were so friendly, and a younger guy. We just moved to the area and I refuse to spent more and get over brewed and burnt coffee at a chain. This place rocks. Go! Support your local neighbors, their businesses and their families. read more

Super cute coffee shop!! My favorite is the blonde banana iced latte. Sometimes can be slow to order, but worth the wait. Didn't have a cold brew, so got the iced americano also and the coffee flavor was perfect! Worth a try!! read more

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This is the best coffee around. No buddy has the quality and flavors of drinks like Red White and Badass Brew.

I love this cafes old fashioned iced latte! I have recommended this place to so many people!

The whiskey latte is hands-down the best iced coffee I've ever had. Super friendly staff my orders always correct. I wish I didn't love this place so much cause its putting a dent in my bank account but in a good way though lol. read more

Great coffee/expresso used in the drinks. Coffee flavor is great. We ordered Gone Bananas and Billy the Kid. Both were iced and the banana cold foam and cold foam w caramel added just enough flavor without over sweetening the drink! Best of all this business is a local company VETERAN owned! Please support Veteran business and local shops! They sell Whiskey coffee! Havent tried it myself but friends have and they love it. Also sells their coffee and kcups to make at home! The staff is friendly and service is quick at this drive up location! WTH! They have a Dole Whip Matcha!!! Never seen this anywhere! This is my next thing to try!! read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

This coffee was really good we found it by luck I ordered Billy the kid and my gf got banana matcha we were Suprised of how good it was now whenever we get the chance we come back read more

I can't say enough positive things about Red White & Badass Brew! As a veteran-owned business, they offer a fantastic selection of drinks that cater to a variety of tastes. The staff is incredibly friendly, always available to answer questions, and goes above and beyond to provide excellent customer service. They made me feel welcomed and truly valued as a customer. Red White & Badass Brew has become my go-to spot for all my coffee needs, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for great coffee and an even better experience! read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Whiskey cold Brew - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

Really wanted to like this place but, 3 strikes and you're out. Each visit has had logistical issues from line confusion, long wait, or lack of receipt. In addition it's a bit pricy with not much to show for it other than good coffee. Will head elsewhere for a better experience. read more

LITERALLY!!! A dangerous place to have on my way to work because now that I know how delicious it is, I'm going to spend all my money there! Really excellent iced latte with banana cold foam. Coffee tasted good in the caffeine hit. Service was also friendly, I didn't mind waiting in the line while I had a break from work to grab a coffee. It's a little expensive, but you're paying for quality. I'd be happy to support a place like this as well as buy some beans. Coffee was excellent, I can't wait to try more on their menu. It's just a drive-through place so you can't sit inside, but if you have a little bit of time and want to support somewhere local, I highly recommend this place. read more

I visited this morning after seeing their "Gone Bananas" latte on social media this week. The man who helped me was very personable and told me a little bit about their business. They just opened up two new locations- one at a baseball field and this one here in La Mesa. They are also a veteran owned shop. When I arrived today there was a paper sign on the window that said "be back in ten minutes." I only waited about five minutes before they returned. I'm glad I waited because they have a unique menu and set up here. After I ordered, there was already a line forming, so I think this is becoming a popular spot. Their menu includes lots of unique flavors like peanut butter, biscoff, whiskey, cherry, and banana. I'm really glad they opened because their drinks are great! I'll try a different one next time. read more

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This is a great small business coffee shop kiosk with a drive thru. They offer good strong coffees with great flavors. I had an Americano iced with 2% milk. The americano was well made. It was rich in coffee flavor and smooth to drink. The young lady in the kiosk put just the right amount of ice in the coffee. They also offer locally baked goods and bagels. They will soon offer acia bowls I've learned. I also learned that this coffee shop us veteran owned. They offer one little table next to the kiosk and a drive thru. The service was very good. The young lady inside the kiosk had a good sense of humor. read more

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I got the banana latte and LOVED IT!!! It was the right amount of sweet, banana, and coffee. It did take a second bc there are only 2 baristas but one came out and got my order before I was even at the window so they are trying their best! Will be coming back! read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Gone Bananas latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

Had the husband stop by for some caffeine. Tried the Whiskey Latte. This was such a good drink! Both loved it. You could taste the espresso and vanilla foam, without it being overly sweet (which sometimes they tend to be). Location is convenient, with a drive thru window. Always a plus! I will say the "beignets" were a let down. Idk, it's bold to try to sell something and call it a beignet, bc we don't typically see those around. I would say scrap those and maybe call them Nutella donut holes? If in the area though, will definitely return! read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Outside - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

Very good coffee first time here passed two Starbucks to come here I would rather support small businesses. Service was fast and price was reasonable . Little sweet for me but still good . First time here will definitely come back when in the area read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Screwball - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

1/6/26 The owner's reply regarding my experience is completely inaccurate. As I stated in my original review, the service was pleasant and the baristas were polite, so there was never any interaction that would have involved profanity. The issue arose only after I questioned the charges on my receipt and requested a refund and left, he did not ban me from the establishment. This response appears to be an attempt to defend the business's credibility rather than accurately reflect what occurred. I stand by my original account of the experience. 12/29/25 Visited and noticed inconsistent totals on multiple visits. The owner explained taxes and convenience fees and said he pays a lawyer $600/hour and knows the law regarding debit card surcharges. Still, the conversation didn't feel productive. I support small, veteran-owned businesses, but undisclosed fees, debit card surcharges, and charges not itemized on receipts are concerning. California law requires price transparency, not vague disclaimers. Customers should trust that what they see is what they will pay. I let the owner know I would adjust my Yelp review, and he said he would adjust his reply. Sadly, business owners need to get the basics of customer service down, including acknowledging concerns and correcting situations when they arise instead of getting defensive. Original review- Service is somewhat fast, the girls are kind and welcoming. Coffee is good just a bit more expensive than Starbucks that's the only downside. read more

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DUUUDE!!! I'm so happy I found this place, In the past I worked in coffee for over 15 years and this espresso makes my heart so happy!!!! Their menu is fun and flavorful- but their iced vanilla latte and jalapeño cheese bagel are AMAZING!! my fave combo. Their mini scones are great, mini beignets are fire , the spice girl is fun and tasty but if you're looking for a true addiction, try their iced vanilla latte read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

Got a 50% off deal from a Mt. Helix event, where we also met the owner, a veteran and genuinely nice guy. We finally stopped by one afternoon and had a short wait, but the whiskey latte was worth it! Smooth, not bitter or too sweet, with a strong coffee flavor--perfectly balanced. A little pricey, but definitely worth an occasional splurge. read more

The service was quite slow and the drink wasn't very good. The girls working were very friendly though.

Found this spot on Sunday morning and had to try. It's a drive up and you can walk up small place located across street from Honey baked ham in La Mesa. Cute spot. Only 1 girl working and she did a great job serving up the drinks. I got the La Mesa Latte Iced but I changed the cherry foam to Vanilla foam. The hint of bourbon and caramel was such a delight. I really enjoyed this latte. So much flavor and not overpowering but satisfying . My Niece got the Gone Bananas and wow it does taste like bananas. It had great flavor and was perfect with every sip. We really enjoyed this coffee spot and will definitely come back again to try other flavors . If you want something different this is the spot. If you like flavor and coffee that magnifies your taste buds the drinks here are on point. read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Menu - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

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I walk up here at least once a week. The girls who work here are always so nice, my dog loves getting his weekly pup cup and the coffee is good! read more

This is a tiny little kiosk on Jackson which is a drive thru. They have some fun coffee drinks on their menu so I wanted to check it out. I also love the name! I had the Gone Bananas drink which was tasty, not too sweet, a good mix. They also don't have drip coffee so I had an Americano instead. They don't sell bags of coffee there but u can order online and pick up there. They have some interesting looking flavors so I might try next time. I'll be back. read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

I love this place. The first thing is the coffee. The flavors are unlike any other spot I've been to. The whiskey espresso does not disappoint. It tastes high quality, it feels like pure bliss. And I'm not just some girl that drinks coffee. My family owns a coffee shop in another state and I was basically raised to be an espresso snob. So when I tell you, this is the spot if you want flavorful, high quality espresso... believe me my friends! They have lots of delicious concoctions with an emphasis on banana flavoring and cold foams. I love it. The other thing is... this place has great service. I've been here when it's busy, I've been here when it's slow. It's always great service. Veteran owned, small business... what more could I ask for? I'm so glad there is FINALLY a good spot for a coffee that's drive up and not Starbucks near me. go here and tip these girls, they deserve it. Support small business read more

Red White and Badass Brew - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Mesa, California

Galberto is the man. The food was great, along with the staff, we felt well taken care of. We will be definitely coming back very soon. Thanks again for the great service Galberto! read more